Although the World Cup is approaching, Cesare Prandelli's national team roster has yet to be finalized. La Gazzetta dello Sport previously reported that the Italian coach has confirmed only 17 players, leaving 6 World Cup spots unallocated. In particular, due to Giuseppe Rossi’s serious injury and other forwards failing to deliver convincing performances, calls for Francesco Totti and Antonio Cassano to return to the national team have been increasing. Especially after the return of the Prince of Rome, who immediately showed excellent form; his club, AS Roma, has also been the most impressive team this season, and many hope that Totti can help the Azzurri clinch the World Cup trophy again, just like in 2006.
Moreover, Totti, who had already announced his retirement from the national team, has surprisingly expressed a positive attitude. “If Prandelli calls me, I would be very proud. I would also be very happy because, in my view, participating in the World Cup in Brazil was never really an option. But as I have always said, I will decide based on my physical condition; being ready is the most important thing,” said the Roma captain. “I hope the national team can reach the finals; they have the capacity. If I were to decide the list, I would definitely select Destro and Florenzi, as they are the type of players who can change the game while always remembering to help the team…”
Prandelli expressed his delight at Totti's gentle indication. “It is a great honor for me that a champion like Totti is still fighting and may have the opportunity to play for me. I have a great respect for him; he has given an extraordinary signal during a sensitive time, but whether he will participate in the World Cup depends on the situation, and we can only decide after making an assessment. It is not a technical issue; Totti's talent is beyond doubt, but the environment in Brazil is quite unique, and we must evaluate his physical condition. Let’s not forget that the last time we discussed Totti, he was still injured, so let’s hold off on that for now…” stated the Italian coach.
As for Cassano, Prandelli was not as accommodating as he was with Totti. “The door to the national team is not closed to Cassano, but it will not be opened to him unconditionally. After the European Championship, we decided to embark on a new era, and by that time, Cassano was already 30 years old. His potential for development is certainly not as great as that of younger players. But if the development of younger players does not meet expectations, and if a player performs better at 32 than at 30, why should we refuse him?” Prandelli said, “However, Cassano must prove that he is in excellent condition, especially on a psychological level. We will conduct a comprehensive assessment, and everyday behavior is also an important aspect I need to consider.”
Additionally, “Argentine” Paletta made an outstanding debut in the national team, prompting the Italian media to call for Prandelli to include more non-native players, such as Jonathan and Romulo. But Prandelli stated: “I am happy that so many people are interested in wearing the blue jersey, but you cannot suddenly say you want to join the Italian national team at the last moment. It is worth noting that Paletta took 8 months to join the Italian team.” Finally, Prandelli also cautioned all national players aiming for the World Cup: “Whoever is too relaxed will certainly not be adequately prepared…,” and it is clear that Prandelli will not bring unprepared players to Brazil.